Delaware Defensive Driving Practice Test

Are digital billboards effective in reducing driver distraction?

1. True

2. False

3. Only in urban areas

4. Only during the day

The correct answer is: False

Digital billboards are often considered to contribute to driver distraction rather than reduce it. The accurate understanding of this stems from research indicating that the dynamic nature of digital displays, along with their frequent changes and vivid colors, can capture a driver's attention in a way that diverts focus from the road and surroundings. Studies have shown that drivers might take longer to re-engage with driving tasks after glancing at such billboards, which can compromise road safety. While it may seem logical to think that increasing the effectiveness of advertising might somehow improve driver awareness, the contrary is frequently observed. The rapid changing of advertisements can lead to prolonged gazes that emphasize distraction, making it difficult for drivers to maintain full attention on the road. The context of digital billboard performance in specific geographic locations or times, such as urban areas or daytime, does not negate the evidence supporting their role as a distraction, which is why the assertion that they are effective in reducing driver distractions is deemed false.